Earl Moseley, speaking to the San Marcos City Council last summer in favor of invocations to begin council meetings. File photo.

By ANDY SEVILLA
Associate Editor

Former San Marcos City Councilmember Earl Moseley, well known for his compassionate ways at Texas State and around San Marcos, died Thursday evening at a San Antonio hospice center where he was undergoing treatment for pancreatic cancer.

Moseley, 48, had been receiving primary care at M.D. Anderson Hospital in Houston, but was transferred to the Odyssey Hospice House in San Antonio this week after doctors at M.D. Anderson discovered that cancer had spread to his liver and kidneys, according to an email sent out to family and friends updating Mosley’s condition earlier this week.

The email stated that doctors told Moseley he only had three months to live.

“Doctors gave their opinion,” said Derrick Benn, Moseley’s close friend of 24 years. “And God has final say so.”

Benn said Moseley died at about 5:40 p.m. and has been picked up by the Lee Chapel West Mortuary in Seguin. Funeral arrangements were pending as of Thursday evening.

“(Moseley) was the best definition of love that I’ve ever seen,” Benn said. “He’s the most genuine person I’ve ever met.”

Moseley served as a San Marcos city councilmember from 1998 to 2001. After graduating from Southwestern University, Moseley arrived at Texas State (then Southwest Texas State) in 1985. At Texas State, Moseley was coordinator of student activities and an advisor to the Student Activities Council, among other roles there.

A Monday night fundraising dinner for Moseley drew more than 200 students and friends and raised more than $2,700.

Margie Crosby, who attended the Abundant Life Church with Moseley, said Moseley was a man of faith and love. She said Moseley also was a source of inspiration. Moseley was the godfather to Crosby’s daughter, Faith.

“Elder Earl was a very passionate person that helped others fulfill their God-given potential,” Crosby said. “He loved serving the Lord. He loved serving the people and the community.”

“It’s hard to lose a brother or a son,” Benn said. “The family lost a huge part of their family… But you lose things when you don’t know where they are. (Moseley) is no longer with us, but we know where he is. He was a man of faith. He’s a fighter. And he loved the Lord.”

Benn said Moseley was the best man at his wedding and was present during his son’s birth. However, Benn said, his fondest memory of Moseley was when he won election to the city council.

Former San Marcos councilmember Daniel Guerrero, now president of the San Marcos Education Foundation, said Moseley was a key figure at his wedding.

“(Moseley) prayed over my wife (Esti) and me during our wedding,” Guerrero said. “It was one of the most incredible experiences in my life.”

Guerrero, like many of Moseley’s friends, said Moseley was a Godsend. Guerrero described him as spiritual, energetic, inspirational leader, “a truly magnificent person.” He said Moseley’s passing leaves a large void.

“He was physically a large man, but spiritually he was larger than life, with his reverence to God,” Guerrero said. “He was a Godsend. He was a son of God… There is no one else in this world that was more prepared to leave this earth. That’s going to be his legacy. We’re here for a short time, and you contribute to your community, leave this world a better place than when you got here. And when God comes calling, you answer that call.”

On his Facebook page, Moseley wrote, “Y’all don’t know how awesome it is to see people respond to good news and to God working in my life. Thank you for your love, support and prayers!”

Guerrero said Moseley had kept his cancer in check for years with medications. Moseley turned 48 earlier this month.

“We’re going to mourn his death for a little while,” Guerrero said. “But we’re going to celebrate his life for a long time.”

Benn said Moseley didn’t have a wife or children. Therefore, Benn said, “he made everybody else his family and shared his love with everyone.”

48 thoughts on “Former Councilmember Earl Moseley dead at 48”

Earl was a former colleague in University Advancement, and a wonderful caring person. You could always count on him to step forward to serve as an emcee for Summerfest. We will miss him. Thank you for getting information about his dath on San Marcos Local News so quickly.
Pat Murdock

Skipper is what I called him growing up together here in Seguin will be truly missed by all who knew him. My son was a student at Tx State before he transferred to UNT and he called me one day and said “mom do you you a Mr. Mosely” of course I replied Skipper and he laughed and said yes. Skipper was a God send to touch my son life and mentor him while at Tx State. I can not express the sadness me and my son have in our hearts for this lose. I know that Skipper was a Christian man and was prepared to move on into greeener pastures. He touched many lives with his positive words. Skipper you will be greatly missed my friend.

Earl and I both started working in student affairs at SWT at the same time. He brought with him a great sense of humor, a heart of gold and a thunderous laugh. His devotion to TX State and to generations of students is a legacy that will live on for many, many years. Godspeed to you, my friend. BT

My prayers go out to his family and friends. He was a wonderful, God-filled human being. I went to Southwestern when he was there, and he had quite the impact on people there, as well as here. He made friends wherever he was. He will be missed.

Earl made Texas State feel like home. Every time we crossed paths on campus, I looked forward to his great big hugs because it was like one you get from an older brother or closest friend. His laugh, humor and genuine compassion will be irreplaceable. He truly cared about you and was a true friend. Mr. Tanner is right. Earl leaves a legacy to all those Bobcats he touched and guided. Let’s pay it forward in his honor. My condolences to his family and friends. Rest in peace.

Our prayers go out to Earl’s family and friends. My wife and I have only known Earl for a couple of years, but he made us feel like family, in a kind, humorous, and loving manner. Earl’s life is demonstration of a powerful, positive legacy that we may all aspire to. Thank You God for for putting Earl Moseley into our lives.

Earl Mosely had one of the best singing voices I have ever heard! What a wonderful gift! I know our Brother Earl is now in Heaven, right up there singing for the Lord, and inspiring others in that Heavenly Chior to sing louder!

Earl really was larger than life. You can literally feel the void on campus already. My prayers continue for his family and friends. My sincerest thanks to those who continue to share the available information regarding arrangements, etc.
I know in my heart of hearts that Earl is in a better place… he will be profoundly missed!

Earl Moseley was one of the most genuinely faithful Christians I have ever met in my life. I feel sure that Jesus smiled daily at what he saw in Earl. — Jake B. Schrum, President, Southwestern University

Earl was a vibrant and valued part of our community in the national campus activities field. His passing will be a great loss to all of us, and we honor his service. Mentors like Earl come along very seldom. We will miss you my old friend.

I met Earl when he worked with Dr. Barrera in the Minority Student Affairs Office. Earl’s hugs were magical and genuine. His positive outlook touched many hearts including mine. I will miss your presence but your memory lives on forever. God Bless.

My sympathy and prayers will be with Earl’s family. He will be missed by many people he touched while at Southwest Texas State. I had the pleasure of meeting him at Freshman Orientation and worked with him on a number of occasions while at SWT, he was larger than life and will be missed. God Bless you Earl Moseley… Hector Porras

Earl was a man I will remember as smart, guiding soul who touched so many lives. He is someone we could all learn from. He was truly an inspiration like no other. Like others mentioned before, I agree that his hugs were warm and welcomed. Also, that man just truly cracked me up! I am truly sad upon hearing this news. He and my father often collaborated with my father on several projects. I will miss him coming into the office. God bless his family.

Earl was the one constant from day during my 4 years as an undergrad and NTSO officer, and into my first year as a grad student this year. Even when I left NTSO, he was always a presence in my other campus endeavors, more so than anyone else. He will be greatly missed. He touched the lives of so many students, facutly, and staff. Our prayers are with his family and friends.

Brother Earl and I worked together at SWT (before it was Texas State) in the Residence Life Office. It was all I could do to keep up with his energy in supporting students, the RA’s and the RLO staff. As the first Hall Director for Blanco Hall Earl managed an incredible undertaking with a staff that loved him. All who were fortunate enough to come into contact with him, left blessed. We will miss you, Councilman, Brother, Friend, Skipper.

I can’t believe Earl is no longer physically among us, but I know his spirit will visiit us often. I worked with Earl for several years in the Multicultural Affairs office. We had many lunches together, but I will always remember a special evening we shared before I left Texas State to work at SMCISD. Earl and I had dinner at Papadeaux’s where he introduced me to fried alligator (much to my reluctance!). Then we attended a James Taylor concert. I always think of Earl whenever I hear a James Taylor song and will do so especially now. Rest in Peace, dear friend. You will be missed.

I just received the following information from Derrick Benn regarding funeral arrangements for Earl Moseley.

Earl’s Homegoing will be held on Friday, March 5th @ 11am in the First Baptist Church of San Marcos (325 McCarty Lane). Public viewing Friday, March 5th @ 10am. Thursday, March 4th — evening viewing @ 2nd Baptist Church in Seguin from 4pm to 7pm.

What a great loss for all of the people who knew and loved Earl. He always brought a ray of sunshine and a smile to our faces when we saw him. He had a special gift of making people feel better when he talked to them. He loved life despite all the physical aliments. I will miss him dearly.

Earl, I am going to miss you man. Thank you for all of your calls and advice since 1995. Thank you for your job recommendations, for being one of my mentors, and for loving me like a son. God Bless you and your family.

I will miss looking you up when I visit San Marcos Earl. I wish we could have done one more lunch or dinner. Thanks for reminding us of our priorities. God always first! Know you will be looking down on us and keeping watch! Until we see you again my friend! Kathy

Brother Moseley, God calls up His favorites before we, who remain, are ready to let them go. Of the many things you taught me, I know that I must trust His wisdom. I know you are singing with the angels, and will watch over us.
Forever in the bonds of phi phi kappa alpha,
George

Earl helped find my first job in San Marcos through Gary Job Corps. When I enrolled at Texas State, he was already there helping young people. During my first years working for the University, I was fortunate to work on the same floor as him and would frequently stop by to discuss my drug problem. Towards the end, he finally told me, “Gene, here’s the deal: You want to continue coming in here (his office) and keep making your little confession.” I knew that Earl wanted me to continue on with my life because he told me so. This was the last time I saw him, but it was such an encouragement that I have vowed to leave that way of life behind. I praise God that I have a bright future for me that does not include the things of the past. It is by His stripes we are healed. Earl is alive forever more!

Earl’s genuine personality of love and kindness was always evident since I first met him in 1987. He was loved and touched so many lives. He was truly a role model and demonstrated his faith daily in ways large and small. God Bless You, my friend.

Thank You Earl for being my friend and brother. You walked in the stream of life as a confident man knowing the Lord in all of his fullness. Your Joy, Your Passion, Your Life all summed up in your SMILE……I LOVE YOU

Brother Earl was a good man. Like most Men of God, his heart was bigger than his wallet. We started the MLK Torch March together at SWT in1992 an Earl and I had a great time waiting to see how the adminstration would respond. To our surpeise, many joined in. Earl was also there when the Lor gave me the vision to create the Mitchell Center on November 17, 1993. I remember looing Earl in the eyes and telling him that if we renovated it the children woul come. And they did. Another fond memory is when Earl, Vince Jones (President Black) and I had the great opportunity to visit the Dr. King Center in Atlanta, GA. Our lives were blessed by the experience. Take care and my brother and enjoy your rest. I will see you early in the morning.

I will miss the bear hugs, Earl. Thanks for all the times you were there for me. I will always remember our conversations and debates. I will call mine a successful life if I I can touch just half as many people in my lifetime that you did in yours. You will be missed by many. Goodbye, for now, big guy.

Earl – came into my life at a very influential time. I was a freshman at Southwestern when I first met Earl; he was my RA which is to say he was my first friend at SU. Although we’ve gone separate ways since those days he has never been far from my thoughts. I’m feeling a very great sense of loss right now as I write down these words; as I recall the times shared. But in the sadness there is mixed in a lot of smiles. And I rejoice with those in Heaven who are welcoming my brother home. In the bonds….

I met earl last summer at a student org leader’s retreat. He was a dynamic fellow… so much so that you couldn’t help but listen when he had something to say.

I was a little taken aback when I ran into him on campus at the start of fall semester and he remembered my name. It was clear to me in the little i knew of him that he was well liked by everyone. something about him remembering the name of a strange face in the crowd said alot about the man. This was the case every time i passed by him… saying hi, calling out to me by name and asking me how I was. genuinely interested in the well being of a stranger.

I first met Earl when he began working at Texas State University many years ago. He was absolutely as wonderful of a man that I have ever known. Such sadness fills my heart. My condolences to all those who loved him. The world has lost an incredible man.

Earl became my mentor while I was attending Job Corp. I was a young kid, only 19 years old, that didn’t have any idea of what to do with my life. Earl had me meet the Dean of Engineering at Texas State. Earl encouraged me to go to college regardless of the financial issues. Earl and I spoke over the phone for one year until I moved to San Marcos. I will be graduating this semester and I owe Earl a great deal of debt to him for pushing college on me. I am just one of the many young adults that Earl helped guide through life. Earl was a great man who had compassion and caring for others that is rare today. Earl’s selfless service towards his friends and others is outstanding.

I met Earl during my years as a student at SWTSU (1984-1988). I served as assistant director of the Gospel Expressions Association and Earl served as our Faculty Advisor. Earl was always a joy to be around and a man of great wisdom. As a matter of fact, it was only today while reading this article that I realized that Earl was only 4 years older than me. I saw Earl back in 2002 during one of his trips to M.D. Anderson. My mother was receiving treatments there also. He was his usual upbeat self. It saddens me to hear of his earthly passing but I rejoice in knowing that this man who was certainly after God’s own heart has transitioned from his earthly taberbernacle to receive to with God for the remainder of eternity. Farewell good brother…

In 1985, I was a staff member assisting in the then SWT Residence Life Office when a large man came to the counter looking for a position as a residence hall director. After only a few seconds, I knew this was no ordinary person, and we became instant friends. Earl was like that. He knew no strangers and considered everyone he encountered his friend. Only a mere year later, while walking with him across the campus, I felt like I was in a parade as people near and far waved at him as Earl walked by. He remained a loyal friend until I left the university, but he was never far from my mind. My younger brother, Mark, who lives in San Marcos, kept me informed on what Earl was up to. Earl had the ability to transcend those things that divide humans such as race, age, gender, mental capacity, lifestyle, to name a few, and look for the good in others and the things that help unite us. The world is a better place as a result of Earl having been in it, even if it was for a short time.
Fidel G. Fernandez, Ph.D.
Bryan, Texas
SWT Graduate Class of ‘06

Earl served on the Executive Board of Directors for the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Texas and it was my great honor to know him for the past year and a half. I’ve always been impressed by his selfless service to the community and we (BBBS) were blessed to experience his support and service. On behalf of our staff, volunteers and kids, I’d like to say that this world is a better place and many kids are reaching their potential because of Earl’s efforts. We’re proud to have know him and will miss him greatly.

Earl was indeed one of God’s children. This beautiful soul was one of the most warmest, sensational humans beings I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. When Earl entered any room, he instantly filled it with Life, light, love and fellowship. Another fellow Southwestern Alum described Earl as having light and goodness eminating from him. I could not agree more. I consider myself fortunate to have Earl not only as a fraternal brother but as a friend and mentor. I shall never forget him.

I went to high school with Earl-Skpper-and have the best memories of church and choir outings with him. He was such a wonderful Christian even back then. I remember when my grandmother died during our Jr. year of h.s. He organized a group of our choir friends to sing “THe Lord Bless You and Keep You” at her service. It was one of our favorite choir songs to perform. (back in the day when we could sing things like that in school!) Any way, Skipper got up there with the handful of others, blew on the pitch pipe and they sang the song accapella. It was a very moving and touching thing for a group of high schoolers to do. I have never forgotten that experience. Another experience i shared with Big Earl, was driver’s ed. I am afraid i gave him and the other two unlucky passengers several good scares during our lessons, but boy did we laugh hard, too!!! He will certaintly be missed. Much love, big guy.
Carol Ray

I just happened upon this sad news when searching for Earl’s phone number at school to call and surprise him! It’d been a few years since we talked, but he was always my conduit when I came back to Texas for a visit. Skipper & I worked together at Blanco Hall as the that hall’s first Co-Hall Directors. Among the many educational programs we ran, one created & produced was The Babe & Skipper Show for students – made not only to entertain our staff and the student body in general, but to engage them, to open their minds, encourage thinking through social issues, and to educate them. Our shows were fun for us both and successful because of the blend of our personalities, and the the love we had for working with students. Earl enjoyed students for themselves and for what they had to offer, and he supported them in their lives – and that’s what caring and mentoring is all about. I’ll miss ya Kiddo – and of course I’ll always have special place for you in my heart . XO